International wrestling expert Vincent Aka inspired young wrestlers and coaches during a special visit to the Sonic Tournament in Glencoe.

The 50-year-old, who was born in Côte d’Ivoire, is a highly respected international freestyle wrestler and Sports and Development Officer for United World Wrestling, based in Switzerland. His role focuses on growing and standardising wrestling across Africa and the rest of the world.

Before moving into coaching and development, Aka represented both France and Côte d’Ivoire as a heavyweight freestyle wrestler, winning medals at major continental and international events. He competed at two Olympic Games and later attended three more Olympics as a coach and official.

Sharing world-class experience

Aka now works closely with wrestling federations across the globe, including the South African Wrestling Federation, where he assists with talent identification, coach development and long-term athlete programmes.

Around 80 wrestlers, ranging in age from five years upwards, competed at Saturday’s Sonic Tournament and were delighted to hear from the internationally renowned official.

Fluent in several languages, Aka said his greatest passion is helping coaches develop the sport.

“Without dedicated wrestling coaches like we have here, we will not be able to grow this ancient sport. I enjoy visiting smaller towns like Glencoe because that is where you find genuine passion,” he said.

Asked what he thought of Glencoe during his visit, Aka laughed and replied: “Don’t worry, I have been to much smaller towns.”

Honoured to host international guest

Rhinos Wrestling Club’s Steven Brown said it was a privilege to welcome Aka to the tournament.

“It is a great honour to have someone of Vincent Aka’s calibre with us. He has dedicated his life to wrestling and our athletes were privileged to meet him and receive valuable advice,” said Brown.

Wrestlers from Ermelo, Heidelberg, Sasolburg, Glencoe, Vryheid, Newcastle, Volksrust and Richards Bay competed in the tournament.

At the conclusion of the event, all competitors received medals sponsored by Orange Grove.

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